Bee Pest Control

FAQ

• Can you become allergic to bee and wasp stings later in life?

  Yes, it is possible to develop an allergy to bee and wasp stings later in life. Allergies can develop at any age, even if you have been stung before without any issues. Repeated exposure to the venom can sometimes trigger an allergic reaction, as the immune system becomes sensitized over time.

• Can bees sting more than once?

  Honeybees have barbed stingers that get stuck in the skin, causing the bee to die when the stinger is ripped from its body. In contrast, bumblebees and carpenter bees have smoother stingers and can sting multiple times.

• What is the difference between bees and wasps?

  Bees and wasps differ in several ways, including appearance, behavior, and their roles in the ecosystem:

  Appearance:

  Bees are usually fuzzy and have rounder bodies with hair that helps them collect pollen.

  Wasps have smoother bodies with narrow waists and can be brightly colored (yellow, black, or red).

  Behavior:

  Bees are generally less aggressive and will sting only in self-defense. Honeybees can sting only once, while other bees like bumblebees can sting multiple times.

  Wasps tend to be more aggressive and can sting multiple times. They are also more likely to sting in defense of their nest.

  Nesting:

  Bees typically build nests from wax in sheltered areas, such as hives, hollow trees, or cavities.

  Wasps construct their nests from a papery substance made of chewed wood fibers and saliva. These nests can be found in various locations, including trees, eaves, and underground.

  Diet:

  Bees primarily feed on nectar and pollen, playing a crucial role in pollination.

  Wasps are more diverse in their diet, feeding on nectar, other insects, and even human food.

  Role in the Ecosystem:

  Bees are essential pollinators, aiding in the reproduction of many flowering plants and crops.

  Wasps help control pest populations by preying on other insects.

• What are the most common bees and wasps in the Chicagoland area?

  In the Chicagoland area, you can encounter several common types of bees and wasps:

  Bees:
  Honeybees: Known for their role in pollination and honey production. They appear orange or brown and black rather than yellow and black.

  Bumblebees: Large, fuzzy bees that are also important pollinators. Typically found near flowering plants.

  Carpenter Bees: Resemble bumblebees but have a shiny, hairless abdomen. They burrow into wood to create nests. The males are typically found hovering near their nests.

  Sweat Bees: Small bees attracted to human sweat for its salt content. They can be metallic in color.

  Mason Bees: Solitary bees that use mud to build their nests in small cavities.

  Wasps:
  Paper Wasps: Recognizable by their slender bodies and nests made of paper-like material. Generally aggressive only when their nest is threatened.

  Yellowjackets: Aggressive wasps that can sting multiple times. They commonly build their nests within voids and are often found around human food sources.

  Bald-faced Hornets: Large wasps with black and white markings. They build large, paper nests in trees, shrubs or on structures.

  Mud Daubers: Solitary wasps that build nests from mud. They are generally non-aggressive.

  Cicada Killers: Large wasps that prey on cicadas. They are solitary, commonly nest in sandy soil and rarely sting humans.